Objective: To elucidate the role of P53, nm23 proteins and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) on angiogenesis and metastasis of laryngeal cancer.
Methods: Specimens of 42 laryngeal carcinomas were studied by immunohistochemical staining for P53 protein, nm23 protein, VEGF and CD34 antibody.
Results: Positive expressions of P53 protein, nm23 protein and VEGF were found in 47.6%, 57.1% and 71.42% of laryngeal cancer specimens respectively. There was a positive relationship between P53 and VEGF expression. The microvessel density (MVD) in P53- or VEGF--positive tumors was significantly higher in patients with cervical lymph node metastases than those without metastases. No correlation was identified between nm23 and VEGF staining. The MVD in nm23-negative and VEGF--positive tumors was significantly high. These phenomena were more easily found in patients with cervical lymph node metastases than in patients without metastases.
Conclusion: P53 gene play roles in the metastasis of laryngeal cancer through regulating VEGF expression and reacting MVD in tumor; and nm23 gene reacts through approaches other than regulating VEGF expression.